Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of sneaker
Explanation
Athletic or casual rubber-soled shoes are called sneakers. Before you walk your neighbor's Great Dane, you'll have to take off your work shoes and put on your sneakers. You can also call sneakers tennis shoes, kicks, or running shoes, and if you're in Britain, you can call them trainers or plimsolls. Sneakers are made for exercise and sports, but they're also very popular everyday shoes because they're so comfortable. Sneaker, which is most common in the Northeast US, comes from their noiseless rubber soles, perfect for sneaking. Originally, they were called sneaks.
Vocabulary lists containing sneaker
"On Turning Ten" by Billy Collins
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
Nike Air Force Ones with classic colors like red, blue, and black had a particularly sluggish quarter, while some newer versions of the sneaker sold better, Dick’s executives said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026
Founded in Massachusetts in the early 1900s, the popularity of Converse has skyrocketed since its Chuck Taylor sneaker was first introduced to US basketball courts in 1917.
From BBC ● Sep. 19, 2026
Peacock acknowledged the sneaker brand’s apology, but added that “must come with accountability.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 19, 2026
Just three years ago, Kioshi employed nearly 120 people and produced 40,000 pairs of sneaker and flip-flops a month in the south of Buenos Aires.
From Barron's ● Sep. 10, 2026
I pull my sneaker off and throw it as far as I can.
From "The Adoration of Jenna Fox" by Mary E. Pearson
My sneakers of course were Pro-Keds like my idol’s.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2026
Nike has been trying to sell off casual throwback sneakers, like Dunks and Air Force 1s, that have fallen out of style.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 1, 2026
Cathy Sparks’ first job at Nike NKE 1.73%increase; up pointing triangle was selling sneakers in one of its Oregon stores.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 28, 2026
Nike has tried to churn out new sneakers and other gear more quickly to re-engage consumers.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 25, 2026
I shove my sneakers into my backpack and race after him.
From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
